How It Works

Learn more about an Adolesco exchange

All The Details

The Basics

How Does it Work?

Adolesco exchanges are a special kind of opportunity where you and your exchange partner both get the opportunity to host and to travel. We carefully match you with an exchange partner in your preferred country (although the more open you are to possible destinations, the more likely you are to be matched). You and your exchange partner each take a turn to live with the others’ family for up to three months. The timing and duration of your travel are up to you – we only ask that you be open to hosting for longer or shorter than you travel if it works out that way.

Who May Apply?

Adventurous and friendly children and teens ages 9 to 17 and their welcoming families are encouraged to apply. Adolesco exchanges are currently offered in France, Germany, Spain, Great Britain, Ireland, the USA, and Canada. You must live in a listed country to participate.

Where Can I Go?

Adolesco exchanges are only offered between countries with different languages. English speakers in the USA, Canada, and the UK and Ireland may choose to travel to France, Germany, or Spain. Adolesco does not offer exchanges between countries with the same language: for example, the USA and the UK, or Ireland and Canada.

When is the Application Deadline?

Adolesco accepts applications year-round for two matching cycles in the spring and fall (typically April and October). Contact your Adolesco representative for specific information about upcoming deadlines. Please note: the entire application process can take 4 to 8 weeks, and your application must be complete in order for you to be considered for a match in a given cycle.

How Much Does it Cost?

Application Fee

When you have decided to apply and would like Adolesco to find an exchange match for you, the non-refundable Application Fee is $100 (USD)/$130 (CAD).

Exchange Fee

Exchange Fee paid to Adolesco is $1,800 (USD). The Exchange Fee can be paid in two installments: a $600 deposit when the match is accepted, and the $1,200 balance two weeks before your child travels. If for some reason an exchange is cancelled before either child travels, the deposit is refunded. If you live in Canada, please contact an Adolesco representative for current prices.

Travel Costs

Airfare and other travel costs are the family’s responsibility. Exchange children must also have a traveler’s insurance policy, primarily medical, which can usually be purchased for under $100.

Discounts

For siblings of exchange alumni as well as for candidates applying for second (or third!) exchanges, the exchange fee is discounted 10%. Contact your Adolesco representative for payment details.

Application Process

The first step is to contact your local representative. They will be your guide throughout the application process and your exchange, from beginning to end. Send us an email or submit the Pre-Application and we’ll be in touch with the next steps:

The Full Application allows Adolesco to match you with your exchange partner. It’s long, but the better we know you, the better we can create an exceptional exchange for you.

The New Family Meeting: You and your family will attend a New Family Meeting in your area. Here, you’ll meet with other prospective Adolesco families, alumni families, and your Adolesco representative. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, hear from experienced families, and learn everything you need to know in order to have a successful exchange.

Home Visit: In most cases, an Adolesco representative will visit you and your family at home, usually over lunch or dinner. It’s an opportunity to get to know you and your family better, and for you to ask questions one-on-one.

The Matches: In the fall and spring, the Adolesco executives pool all of the applicants from each country and create the matches. Once we let you know you’ve been matched, you have the opportunity to see the application of your exchange partner and decide if you’d like to go ahead. Once both sides accept the match, the travel planning can begin and your exchange adventure is underway!

It may be winter now, but we're looking ahead to the Spring 2019 match! Application deadline in the US is March 15. This is your last chance to be matched for an exchange this summer - begin the process today at buff.ly/2GxiCVL...